Enhancing seed shelf life through modified atmospheric packaging: Mechanisms, benefits and future prospects

Efficient seed storage is crucial for maintaining seed quality, viability, and germination potential, which directly impact agricultural productivity and food security. However, prolonged storage leads to seed deterioration due to both biotic and abiotic factors, resulting in significant post-harvest losses. Modified atmospheric packaging (MAP) is a sustainable non-chemical technology that enhances seed storability by altering the gaseous environment around seeds. MAP operates through active packaging, which injects desired gases and passive packaging, where the product’s respiration modifies the atmosphere. By reducing oxygen (O2) levels, minimizing moisture absorption, and inhibiting microbial and insect activity, MAP extends seed shelf life. Typically, O2 is replaced with nitrogen (N2) or carbon dioxide (CO2), limiting oxidative reactions and metabolic activity. MAP benefits multiple seed types, including cereals, legumes, oilseeds, and horticultural crops. Physically, it reduces seed moisture, delaying deterioration and preserving seed coat color. Physiologically, it prolongs seed longevity by reducing the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and conserving seed reserves. Biochemically, it minimizes lipid peroxidation, maintains enzyme activities like alpha-amylase and catalase and reduces electrolyte leakage. Additionally, MAP controls storage pests and pathogens; elevated CO2 inhibits insect proliferation and fungal contamination, mitigating mycotoxin risks. This review examines the strategic role of MAP in seed conservation for sustainable agriculture by comparing MAP with traditional storage methods and assessing its impact on seed viability and longevity.